Allergies affect numerous individuals, where allergic reactions lead to runny noses, congestion, sneezing, headaches, and coughing. In addition, if things weren’t bad enough, allergic conjunctivitis can result in red, watery, itchy, and occasionally swollen eyes. The same irritants that cause allergic responses in your nasal and respiratory systems can also react with your eyes with an oversensitive immune response. Millions of North Americans — we Californians are no strangers to this — are affected by allergies, particularly with seasonal allergic conjunctivitis (SAC) which is common during the spring, summer, and fall.
What Causes An Eye Allergy
When the eye comes into contact with outside stimuli, this can lead to an allergic reaction. Airborne substances from grass or flowers, indoor allergens from pets or mold, and even irritants from cosmetics or perfume can all lead to an eye allergy.
Tips for Coping With Eye Allergies
To reduce exposure to allergens:
- Keep inside with windows closed.
- Keep a pair of polarized sunglasses on hand when going outside.
- Never rub your eyes. This can intensify the symptoms and can be damage the cornea.
- Clean your air conditioning filters.
- Keep your hands clean, especially after petting a dog or cat.
- Wash bed linens regularly.
- Clean for dust & keep the floor vacuumed.
- Remove any mold in your home.
Most importantly, if you wear contact lenses, make sure you follow your eye doctor’s instructions on cleaning them with the right solution and follow their regular schedule. Taking a day off from wearing contact lenses is also a healthy way to provide your eyes with oxygen.
Lastly, schedule a routine eye exam with your eye doctor in Oxnard, CA. Dr. Knapp or Dr. Holden will gladly guide you on handling your eye allergies and improving the comfort of your vision.
-
Eye allergies can cause a variety of symptoms, where swollen eyelids are certainly one of the most noticeable. Learn about causes swollen eyelids & treatments available.
*We are closed from 12-1 for lunch.